Visit to Lower Bridge Meadow, in Much Marcle

Join WVW for a walk around Lower Bridge Meadow, the last traditional hay meadow in Much Marcle, an incredibly special place. Surveys have recorded more than 80 different species in Lower Bridge Meadow’s 2.4 acres.

There are two distinct grassland communities: a small area of wet fen grassland dominated by Meadowsweet Filipendula ulmaria adjacent to a stream ('M27 Filipendula ulmaria–Angelica sylvestris mire) and ‘MG5 grassland’ - a rare priority habitat, with less than 6,000ha remaining in England.  Species such as Common Bird’s-foot-trefoil Lotus corniculatus, Common Knapweed Centaurea nigra, Cowslip Primula veris and Lady’s Bedstraw Galium verum, Common Spotted-orchid Dactylorhiza fuchsii and an exciting rare plant Adder’s-tongue Fern Ophioglossum vulgatum – named for the fertile frond’s resemblance to a snake’s tongue.   

The April visit is timed to see the rare Adders tongue fern at their best.  The visit to Lower Bridge Meadow, will also include a tour of the traditional orchards and a visit and tasting in the cider/perry shed for those who are interested.